The SSU continues to expose manifestations of Russia’s hybrid aggression against Ukraine. The Service has identified three more offenders, who ordered bomb alerts in educational institutions, shopping malls and residential buildings in Cherkasy region.

According to the investigation, these are three minors from Cherkasy region: two students from Cherkasy and one resident of Smila.

These individuals ordered false bomb threats via a closed telegram channel used by the aggressor state as a tool to spread panic in Ukraine. Among others, they wrote to the offender exposed by the SSU last week. That ‘anonymous terrorist’ not only used private chats in Telegram, but also created his own channel to accept ‘orders’.

The exposed perpetrators confessed, explaining that they wanted to disrupt educational process and have fun.

During the searches of the suspects’ homes, the investigators seized computers and mobile phones with evidence, including the relevant messaging in Telegram chats.

Criminal proceedings have been opened under Article 259.2 of the CCU (knowingly false report about a threat to public safety, destruction or damage to property, committed repeatedly). The investigators are preparing notices of suspicion.

The SSU is verifying the minors’ involvement in other similar crimes.

The SSU Office in Cherkasy region carried out the operation jointly with the National Police under the supervision of Cherkasy District Prosecutor’s Office.